Abstract: Naming is a way to define identity. In literary works, name does not only function as artistic symbols, but also signify the identity of the character it refers. The artful manipulation of naming and identity in Mrs. Gaskell’s novel Wives and Daughters makes great contributions to its success as a masterpiece. Nevertheless, little attention is paid to this aspect by conventional literary critiques, which mainly focus on its political involvement or ethical significance. In fact, setting up the relationship between name and identity can effectively reshape characters’ political and cultural status. Understanding this will be helpful to interpret the artistic skills in literary works, including feminist writings, and thus to bring to surface the profound meaning between the lines.

Keywords: naming; identity; Wives and Daughters; Mrs. Gaskell

摘要： 命名是为了界定一种身份，在文学作品中，姓名既是艺术角色的符号，又蕴含着深刻的名实关系。盖斯凯尔夫人的《妻子与女儿》就是一部巧设人名以体现人物性格的奇妙作品，而传统的文学评论对这一点并不十分重视，它们大多从政治、伦理等社会语境对小说进行剖析和考证。事实上，人物命名背后蕴藏的名与实的关系，往往也是塑造人物政治身份和文化身份的有效方法。认识这一点，有助于从新的角度解读包括女性文学在内的文学艺术作品，也有助于挖掘作品背后的深刻内涵。

关键词: 人物命名, 身份说, 《妻子与女儿》, 盖斯凯尔夫人